POLICE are hunting for a man described as a dangerous and predatory who is believed to have committed a serious sex offence while on the run.

Ivan Leach, also known as Lee Cyrus, 47, went missing from North Sea Camp open prison, Boston, Lincolnshire on Tuesday, October 9 after going on day release.

Officers have warned Leach should not under any circumstances be approached as he poses a significant risk. He is believed to have carried out a very serious sexual attack in Tayside, Scotland, since he absconded on October 9.

The last confirmed sighting of Leach is on the evening of Friday, October 19 in Lea, Preston, but despite a nationwide appeal he remains at large.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Dawson, of Preston Police said: “While Leach remains at large he continues to pose a serious threat to members of the public.

“He has previous convictions for burglary, sex offences against a young girl, assault and robberies in which he has targeted elderly people in their own homes.

“We believe he could be sleeping rough and travelling extensively throughout the country, most likely on public transport.”

Leach is described as white, 5ft 11ins tall, of stocky build with cropped hair and hazel eyes.

His has a distinctive scar on his top lip under his nose and two distinctive tattoos, one with the name Annette on the bicep of his left arm and a figure of a barbarian woman on the back of his right shoulder blade.

Information can be passed to local police either in person or on 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.